Tribunal representatives will hold a native title information session at the Beaudesert Town Hall on Tuesday, May 21, at 12.30pm.
"The meeting has been arranged so the whole community has a chance to better understand native title and the Tribunal's processes," Tribunal case manager Ms Jane Mussett said.
"When the native title application by the Aboriginal people of northern NSW, known traditionally as the Gidhabul, was lodged there was a lot of confusion in the community.
"It needs to be understood, native title agreements are reached through mediation and negotiation. The Tribunal doesn't tell people what form those agreements will take, it merely provides a mediation service that can bring all those with an interest in a claim together so issues of mutual interest can be discussed.
"Out of these discussions, it's hoped agreements can be reached that suit the native title claimants and all parties to the application," she said.
The Gidhabul application covers some vacant crown land, waters, reserve land, state forests and national parks in northern NSW and southern Queensland. The applicants have not claimed native title over any freehold land.
For more information on native title and the work of the Tribunal, call 008 640 501.
|